sports
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Celtics Win With Benchwarmers; Could Indicate Future Bench Strength of NBA Rivals
National Desk
April 15, 2026
Why it matters locally: While the Celtics defeating the Magic with mostly bench players in a meaningless final game doesn't directly affect Arkansas residents, businesses, or government in any immediate way, it could hint at deeper roster strength across the NBA. Razorbacks fans or Arkansans with friends/family in Orlando or Boston may have a peripheral interest. However the game has little direct impact for the state.
Boston, MA - The Boston Celtics defeated the Orlando Magic 113-108 in the final game of the regular season on Sunday at TD Garden. The Celtics entered the game with several starters resting, including Jayson Tatum, who has been managing an Achilles injury. According to reports, the Celtics fielded what has been described as the least expensive NBA active roster this season. Despite the absences, Celtics bench players took the opportunity to showcase their abilities. Baylor Scheierman scored 30 points, while Ron Harper Jr. and Luka Garza each contributed 27 points. Harper Jr. spoke to reporters, relaying a pre-game message from Garza highlighting the opportunity for players who often sit on the bench. "Luka said it before the game, huddled up, this is for all the times that we on the bench, all the times we want an opportunity, we had a chance to go out there and show it," Harper Jr. said. Harper Jr. also stated the mindset of the team going into the game was competitive despite being undermanned. "We definitely didn't go into this game thinking this is like David vs. Goliath, thinking we're like ultimate underdogs. We came into the game expecting to compete and expecting to win."
Boston, MA - The Boston Celtics defeated the Orlando Magic 113-108 in the final game of the regular season on Sunday at TD Garden. The Celtics entered the game with several starters resting, including Jayson Tatum, who has been managing an Achilles injury. According to reports, the Celtics fielded what has been described as the least expensive NBA active roster this season. Despite the absences, Celtics bench players took the opportunity to showcase their abilities. Baylor Scheierman scored 30 points, while Ron Harper Jr. and Luka Garza each contributed 27 points. Harper Jr. spoke to reporters, relaying a pre-game message from Garza highlighting the opportunity for players who often sit on the bench. "Luka said it before the game, huddled up, this is for all the times that we on the bench, all the times we want an opportunity, we had a chance to go out there and show it," Harper Jr. said. Harper Jr. also stated the mindset of the team going into the game was competitive despite being undermanned. "We definitely didn't go into this game thinking this is like David vs. Goliath, thinking we're like ultimate underdogs. We came into the game expecting to compete and expecting to win."
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